The exploration of the Arctic by the Russians took place under extremely harsh conditions. In attempts to explore uncharted territories and map new lands, many polar explorers went missing. Nevertheless, our researchers did not give up and continued to organize new expeditions. In June 1900, the schooner "Zarya" set sail on a dangerous voyage under the leadership of geologist Eduard Vasilyevich Toll. He intended to study the ocean currents in the East Siberian and Kara Seas, as well as head north in search of the mythical Sannikov Land, which many believed in at the time. The cartographer on the "Zarya" was Alexander Kolchak, the future leader of the White movement.

After several months, the sailors reached Taymyr from St. Petersburg, where they spent their first winter. It turned out to be unsuccessful, as in April, Toll quarreled with Captain Kolomeitsev, who, along with sailor Rastorguev, left the ship. On their way to the base, they accidentally discovered a new island and a river. At this time, the schooner completed hydrographic studies, and in September, it was decided to search for Sannikov Land.

However, soon the "Zarya" became stuck in the ice again, and the crew had to endure a second winter. The following year, tired of waiting, Eduard Toll decided to reach Sannikov Land using dog sleds and kayaks. It was assumed that the "Zarya" would wait for them near Bennett Island, but soon it sustained serious damage and was forced to return. Toll's group, not waiting for the "Zarya," decided to move south to the continent on their own and disappeared without a trace. The whereabouts of these four brave polar explorers remain unknown to this day. The exploration of the Russian north came at such a terrible price. Honor and praise to them!